Several members of Croydon Harriers junior team laid down impressive markers in their opening National Junior League clash at Eltham on Sunday, writes Matthew Kiernan.

Temi Ladega, 18, stole the limelight with a formidable 15.28m effort in the shot putt for a clear victory, a result which places him fifth in the UK U20 rankings.

The throw also broke a 37-year-old club record set by Simon Cayley for longest U20 men throw in Harriers history.

He was ably supported at the league clash by the trio of Peter Chambers (1500m, 4.16:2), Andre Gibbs (200m, 23.54) and Cameron Smith (100m, 11.1), who all claimed solid runners-up spots.

There were also lifetime best performances for Ben Savill (800m, 2.17:1), Mark Plackett (3000m, 9.42:8) and Davine Dubidad (discus, 20.07m).

The day was capped off with a fine win in the 4x100m with Gibbs and Smith, being joined by Scott Fanner and Oweka Wanogho to storm to a 44.94s clocking.

Elsewhere, long jumper Elliot Safo continued his rise to prominence with a second place finish at the Sward Trophy at Kingsmeadow, thanks to a leap of 7.05m.

Three Croydon Harriers will have an extra incentive when they tackle the Virgin London Marathon this Sunday, as they’ll be running to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

The charity has become the club’s official charity after one of its members, Cecilia Barriga, tragically died in 2007 from Sudden Cardiac Death at just 15 years of age.

Steve Haasz, Matthew Kiernan and Colin Oxlade will all be tackling the 26.2 mile route around London and have so far raised over £1,500 between them.

To sponsor the Harriers visit virginmoneygiving.com and search for Steve Haasz.